There are many species of house spiders all across America that find their way, and more often than we would like, into our homes. The most common house spider is, you guessed it, the Common House Spider or more technically, the Parasteatoda Tepidariorum. Of course they got the name Common House Spider because they frequently are found residing in human dwellings. Common house spiders always find their way into our homes which often can become a problem as they breed and begin to infest our homes. In addition, no one likes a creepy crawly in their home. A-Tex Pest Management will share more about the Common House Spider and what can be done to prevent them from infesting your home.
How Do You Identify a Common House Spider?
The Common House Spider is a smaller species of spider. Females are about 5/16 of an inch with the male being much smaller. Male Common House Spiders only get 1/8 of an inch long. Common House Spiders are either brown or grey in color with dark chevron markings on their body. The Common House Spider body is broken down into two parts: the head or cephalothorax and their abdomen. Of course, the Common House Spider is classified as an arachnid which means they will also have eight legs and eight single lens eyes. Additionally, the body shape of the Common House Spider resembles that of a black widow with a smaller head, round abdomen, and robust legs that are much smaller.
Common House Spiders Catch Insects in Webs
The Common House Spider often makes their web on high ground. You will often find cobwebs in the corners of ceilings, light fixtures, and at the top of windows. However, you may also see multiple abandoned cobwebs throughout your home. Don’t worry. This doesn’t always mean you’re infested. The Common House Spider spins its web and moves on from location to location until they find the best spot to catch prey. The Common House Spider will feed on anything that gets trapped in their web. However, their primary food source is other insects.
How Do I Get Rid of a Spider Infestation in My House?
The Common House Spider female can lay up to 4000 eggs in her life time. As you can see, this could cause a major infestation. Common House Spiders are not the worst house guest. They can reduce fly populations and other pests in and around your home. Some may ask if they are poisonous. Well, they do use venom on their prey and will bite if they feel threatened. However they are normally not toxic to humans. There have been a few that have had an allergic reaction and needed medical care, but it is still very rare. If bitten and you’re concerned, try to take the spider that bit you to a medical care facility for proper identification and access your state and tell him or her if you have had any negative reaction. Remember; if after you where bitten by a spider or any venomous pest, if you begin to have headaches, swelling or if lesions begin to appear, seek medical aid.
Spider Pest Inspections, Treatment, Control, Removal & More in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park Texas
Exclusion is the best way to prevent a Common House Spider infestation. This means making sure your home is properly sealed and especially in areas such as windows and doorways. Also look for cracks and gaps where any pest can enter your home. Your next step is regularly spraying pesticides in and outside of your home. You can do it yourself or use a professional pest control company. A-Tex Pest Management can provide a great pest control program to fit your individual needs. Contact us today to be pest free.